Chemical Additives to Make Polymeric Materials Biodegradable

ABSTRACT

The present invention is a new additive material that is physically blended with polymeric material to create at least a partially biodegradable product.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is related to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/855,430, entitled “Chemical Additives to Make Polymeric Materials Biodegradable”, to John A. Lake, et al., filed on Oct. 31, 2006, and the specification thereof is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention Technical Field

The present invention relates to new additive materials that are physically blended with polymeric materials to impart biodegradability to resulting articles formed from the polymeric materials.

Plastics are industrially mass-produced and at the same time are used widely in daily life and in industrial fields with their usage increasing greatly. It is desirable to produce plastics that withstand the forces of nature. Many plastics are not degraded in natural environments, and so in recent years, environmental littering and destruction due to discarded plastics has occurred. Accordingly, in recent years, development of plastics that can be biodegraded in natural environments has been desired.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,037,983 issued to Huang, et al, on May 2, 2006 teaches methods of making functional biodegradable polymers and methods to modify biodegradable polymers using a direct chemical reaction of a biodegradable polymer in a vinyl monomer. Huang chemically combines the additive material into the chemical chains of the polymers.

U.S. Patent Application Publication 2004/0076778 teaches a biodegradable bag is taught which comprises a laminated film obtainable by laminating a sealant layer comprising a biodegradable polymer, a barrier layer having an oxygen barrier property and a water vapor barrier property and a barrier layer-supporting substrate layer comprising a biodegradable polymer, said laminated film being heat-sealed in order for the sealant layer to be inside. There is no teaching of seeded microbes for degrading the polymer in the layers.

U.S. Patent Application Publication 2004/0068059 teaches performing a condensation polymerization reaction of a mixture made of the three components: an aliphatic diol, an aliphatic dicarboxylic acid, and an aliphatic hydroxycarboxylic acid or its anhydrous cyclic compound (a lactone) to synthesize a low molecular weight polyester copolymer having a weight average molecular weight of 5,000 or more, preferably 10,000 or more, and adding a bifunctional coupler to the polyester copolymer in a molten state. Further, a high molecular weight aliphatic polyester copolymer and a high molecular weight aliphatic polyester copolymer containing polylactic acid. These copolymers can be degraded by microorganisms present in soils or water.

U.S. Patent Application Publication 2003/0157214 teaches a composition of graft copolymers of polyhydroxy compounds. The composition provides an effective method to create environmentally friendly chewing gum.

Furanone-derived compositions have been known in the art to have various utilities. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,296,889 describes the use of certain furanone compounds in conjunction with 1-nonen-3-one to provide dairy and coffee aroma flavor enhancement. Specific furanones (for example, 3,-(3,4-difluorophenyl)-4-(4-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl)-2-(5H)-furanone, 3-phenyl-4-(4-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl)-2-(5H)-furanone and 5,5-dimethyl-4-(4-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl)-3-(3-fluorophenyl)-5H-furan-2-one) have been shown to be cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors useful in treating certain inflammatory conditions (U.S.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,599,960 issued to Boden et al., on Feb. 4, 1997 teaches a 3,5-dimethyl-pentenyl-dihydro-2(3H)-furanone isomer mixture with organoleptic properties. The mixture has a sweet, lactonic, coumarinic, jasmine aroma with intense green, citrusy, sweet, lactonic topnotes and bergamot peel and lemony undertones and is a pleasant odor to humans. This aroma is highly desirable in several types of perfume compositions, perfumed articles, colognes, deodorizing compositions and odor maskant compositions.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One embodiment of the present invention provides a biodegradable additive for polymeric material comprising a chemo attractant compound; a glutaric acid or its derivative; a carboxylic acid compound with chain length from 5-18 carbons; a polymer; and a swelling agent. In addition, the additive may further comprise one or more of the following: a microbe which can digest the polymeric material a compatibilizing additive, a positive chemotaxis agent to attract the microbes, metal to induce rusting, colorants, and/or inks, and/or metallic particles to increase or decrease light reflectance, add strength, slow or prevent the breakdown of a layer or vary the time to break down, or a carrier resin.

In a preferred embodiment, the polymer is selected from the group consisting of: polydivinyl benzene, ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyterethalate, polyesters, polyvinyl chloride, polymethyl methacrylate, polycarbonate, polyamide, and any copolymers of said polymers.

In a preferred embodiment the carrier resin is selected from the group consisting of: polydivinyl benzene, ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers, maleic anhydride, acrylic acid with polyolefins.

In a more preferred embodiment, the microbe and the furanone are disposed within a capsule in order to facilitate controlled release of the material.

The furanone may be for example 2(3H)-Furanone, dihydro-4,5-dimethyl, 3,4,5-trimethyl-5H-furan-2-one compound with methane but is not limited thereto.

According to another embodiment a method for creating a layered polymer plastic is disclosed comprising: providing at least one layer of a polymer; and layering products around the polymer to create a new biodegradable product. In a preferred embodiment, one layer comprises a microbe suitable for degrading the polymer. In a preferred embodiment, the microbes are applied to the at least one layer using vapor deposition. In a more preferred embodiment the layering is biaxially oriented. In another preferred embodiment, the layering is shaped like honey comb hexagon shapes. In an alternate embodiment, an inner layer is rigid against mechanical stress. In yet another alternative embodiment, at least one layer comprises a fragrance. In a preferred embodiment, at least one layer is one or more of the following: a smell attractant for microbes, an initiator that modifies the polymer, has perforations.

In response to the need for a better and more effective way to render polymeric materials biodegradable, the present invention teaches how to make additive materials and how to effectively use those materials to render polymeric materials biodegradable

Therefore it is an object of the present invention to make a wide variety of polymeric materials biodegradable no matter what their chemical composition.

It is a further object of the present invention to make biologically safe and biodegradable polymeric materials without having to chemically modify the polymeric molecules.

It is another object of the present invention to have an additive material that can make most polymeric compositions biodegradable by merely mixing it in with the polymeric material any time before the polymeric material is formed into an article for sale.

One aspect of the present invention provides controlled release technology for the controlled release of perfumes into gaseous environments during polymer degradation.

These and other objects of the present invention will become clear to those of ordinary skill in this art by reviewing this description and claims appended hereto.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of making a polymer biodegradable with layering of additive.

FIG. 2 illustrates size exclusion chromatography of a polymer composite material in the presence and absence of additive.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As used herein, “a” means one or more.

As used herein, “chemo attractant” is inorganic or organic substances possessing chemotaxis inducer effect in motile cells.

As used herein “polymer” is a synthetic and/or natural macromolecules composed of smaller units called monomers that are bonded together.

Polymers

Polymers are synthetic and natural macromolecules composed of smaller units called monomers that are bonded together. Thermoplastics are a type of polymer that can melt or deform, melts to a liquid when heated and freezes to a brittle, very glassy state when cooled sufficiently. Most thermoplastics are high molecular weight polymers whose chains associate through weak van der Waals forces (such as polyethylene); stronger dipole-dipole interactions and hydrogen bonding (such as polyamide); or stacking of aromatic rings (such as polystyrene). Thermoplastic polymers differ from thermosetting polymers as they can, unlike thermosetting polymers, be remelted and remoulded. Many thermoplastic materials are addition polymers; e.g., vinyl chain-growth polymers such as polyethylene and polypropylene.

The major types of thermoplastics include linear low density polyethylene, high density polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, low density polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene and other resins. The major classes of thermosetting polymer resins include polyester, one of which is polyethylene terephthalate and polyurethane.

Certain polymers are taught by the literature as not biodegradable or only very slowly biodegradable. One embodiment of the present invention enables the acceleration of biodegradation of a wide range of polymers to such an extent as to significantly reduce their environmental impact without adversely affecting their desirable physical properties.

These polymers include polystyrene, polyurethane, polyethylene, polypropylene, or polycarbonate plastics. Polymers made from groups such as aldehydes, methyl, propyl, ethyl, benzyl or hydroxyl groups and petroleum based polymers are also taught as not biodegradable. One embodiment of the present invention is directed to increasing the biodegradability of non-biodegradable polymers by addition of a biodegradable polymer additive to the polymer composition.

Biodegradable Polymers

Biodegradation is generally considered as consisting of either enzyme-catalyzed hydrolysis, non-enzymatic hydrolysis, or both. The enzymes may be either endoenzymes which cleave the internal chain linkages within the chain or exoenzymes which cleave terminal monomer units sequentially.

Biodegradation is a functional decay of material, e.g. loss of strength, substance, transparency, or good dielectric properties where it is known to be identifiable with exposure of the material to a living environment, which may itself be very complex, and the property loss may be attributable to physical or chemical actions as first steps in an elaborate chain of processes.

A biodegradable polymer is a high molecular weight polymer that, owing to the action of micro- and/or macroorganisms or enzymes, degrades to lower molecular weight compounds. Natural polymers are by definition those which are biosynthesized by various routes in the biosphere. Proteins, polysaccharides, nucleic acids, lipids, natural rubber, and lignin, among others, are all biodegradable polymers, but the rate of this biodegradation may vary from hours to years depending on the nature of the functional group and degree of complexity. Biopolymers are organized in different ways at different scales. This hierarchical architecture of natural polymers allows the use of relatively few starting molecules (i.e. monomers), which are varied in sequences and conformations at molecular-, nano-, micro-, and macroscale, forming truly environmentally adaptable polymers.

On the other hand, the repetitive units of synthetic polymers are hydrolyzable, oxidizable, thermally degradable, or degradable by other means. Nature also uses these degradation modes, e.g., oxidation or hydrolysis, so in that sense there is no distinction between natural or synthetic polymers. The catalysts promoting the degradations in nature (catabolisms) are the enzymes, which are grouped in six different classes according to the reaction catalyzed. These classes include oxidoreductase for catalyzing redox reactions, transferase for catalyzing transfer of functional group reactions, hydrolase for catalyzing hydrolysis, lyase for catalyzing addition to double bond reactions, isomerase for catalyzing isomerization and ligase for catalyzing formation of new bonds using ATP.

Biodegradation of oxidizable polymers is generally slower than biodegradation of hydrolyzable ones. Even polyethylene, which is rather inert to direct biodegradation, has been shown to biodegrade after initial photo-oxidation. An oxidized polymer is more brittle and hydrophilic than a nonoxidized polymer, which also usually results in a material with increased biodegradability. Means to accelerate the oxidation of polymers (for example polyolefins) are presented according to one embodiment of the present invention.

For example, by combining a nickel dithiocarbamate (photo antioxidant) with an iron dithiocarbamate (photo proxidant), a wide range of embrittlement times may be obtained.

One embodiment of the present invention provides for increased susceptibility to biodegradation of polymers by means of additives including a biopolymer. In this way a polymer blend is obtained that is more susceptible to biodegradation.

Combining granular starch mixed with polyethylene together with an unsaturated polymer, a thermal stabilizer, and a transition metal produce a material with increased susceptibility to photo-oxidation, thermolysis, and biodegradation. This particular material has also an induction time before degradation may be initiated. The use of starch alone in polyethylene, for example, requires, however, rather large amounts in order to really create an increase in the biodegradation rate.

According to one embodiment, a filler is added to a composition to be added to a polymer there by increasing the biodegradability.

Microbial or enzymatic attack of pure aromatic polyester is increased by exposure to certain microbes, for example Trichosporum, athrobacteria and Asperyillus negs.

Aliphatic polyester degradation is seen as a two-step process: the first is depolymerization, or surface erosion. The second is enzymatic hydrolysis which produces water-insoluble intermediates that can be assimilated by microbial cells.

Polyurethane degradation may occur by fungal degradation, bacterial degradation and degradation by polyurethane enzymes.

Microbes

A variety of microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi, aid in degrading polymeric materials. Preliminary Review of the Degradation of Cellulosic, Plastic, and Rubber Materials in the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant, and Possible Effects of Magnesium Oxide Safety Factor Calculations, Prepared for U.S. EPA Office of Radiation and Indoor Air (Sep. 11, 2006). Actinobacteria are a type of bacteria that are most(ly) commonly found in soil and can thrive in low-nutrient environments. They can survive in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions, although most are aerobic. The most important role of the Actinobacteria is decomposition of organic nutrients, such as cellulose, and they are one of the few bacteria able to consume lignocellulose.

Fungi (molds) commonly require oxygen and a pH range of 4.5 to 5 to proliferate. Fungi grow at temperatures ranging up to 45° C., although optimum growth rates generally occur at temperatures between 30° C. and 37° C. Because most fungi require oxygen, they may only be available for cellulosic, plastic and rubber (CPR) degradation before closure and for a relatively short time (compost environment). There is some evidence that anaerobic fungi may degrade lignocellulosic materials.

Biodegradation processes can affect polymers in a number of ways. Microbial processes that can affect polymers include mechanical damage caused by growing cells, direct enzymatic effects leading to breakdown of the polymer structure, and secondary biochemical effects caused by excretion of substances other than enzymes that may directly affect the polymer or change environmental conditions, such as pH or redox conditions. Although microorganisms such as bacteria generally are very specific with respect to the substrate utilized for growth, many are capable of adapting to other substrates over time. Microorganisms produce enzymes that catalyze reactions by combining with a specific substrate or combination of substrates. The conformation of these enzymes determines their catalytic reactivity towards polymers. Conformational changes in these enzymes may be induced by the changes in pH, temperature, and other chemical additives.

Microbes and Plastics Degradation

For the enzymatic degradation of synthetic plastic polymers, polymers containing hydrolysable groups in the polymer backbone would be especially prone to microbial attack, because many microorganisms are capable of producing hydrolases (enzymes catalyzing hydrolysis). In general, aliphatic polyesters, polyurethane, polyethers, and polyimides are more easily degraded by commonly occurring microorganisms. Generally, higher molecular weight polymers and branched polymers are more resistant to microbial degradation. Polyethylene and polyvinylchloride are considered to be relatively resistant to microbial degradation. However, some bacterial strains have been identified that can degrade polyethylene, including Rhodococcus and B. borstelensis.

The ability of microorganisms to adapt to a new source of nutrients is highly noteworthy in any evaluation of the microbial degradation of plastic materials. Evidence of adaptation of bacteria for the degradation of plastics has been shown in several cases. For example, it was found that Pseudomonas aeruginosa started proliferation 56 days after the bacteria were brought into contact with polyamide-6 polymer. Inoculation of previously untreated polyamide with these bacteria resulted in immediate growth on the new substrate. Individual species of bacteria can carry out several different steps of chemical breakdown or biodegradation. Most toxic compounds are degraded or biodegraded by groups called consortia. Each species in the group works on a particular stage of the degradation process, and one or more of them together are needed for the complete degradation or biodegradation or detoxification process. Contaminated vessels containing such things as pesticides, metals, radioactive elements, mixed wastes and the like can be made to contain microbes that will detoxify and decompose the contaminates and biodegrade the vessel.

Other microbes that may assist in biodegradation are psychrophiles, mesophiles, thermophiles, actinomycetes, saprophytes, absidia, acremonium, alternaria, amerospore, arthrinium, ascospore, aspergillus, aspergillus caesiellus, aspergillus candidus, aspergillus carneus, aspergillus clavatus, aspergillus deflectus, aspergillus flavus, aspergillus fumigatus, aspergillus glaucus, aspergillus nidulans, aspergillus ochraceus, aspergillus oryzae, aspergillus parasiticus, aspergillus penicilloides, aspergillus restrictus, aspergillus sydowi, aspergillus terreus, aspergillus ustus, aspergillus versicolor, aspergillus/penicillium—like, aureobasidium, basidiomycetes, basidiospore, bipolaris, blastomyces, B. borstelensis, botrytis, candida, cephalosporium, chaetomium, cladosporium, cladosporium fulvum, cladosporium herbarum, cladosporium macrocarpum, cladosporium sphaerospermum, conidia, conidium, conidobolus, Cryptococcus neoformans, cryptostroma corticale, cunninghamella, curvularia, dreschlera, epicoccum, epidermophyton, fungus, fusarium, fusarium solani, geotrichum, gliocladium, helicomyces, helminthosporium, histoplasma, humicula, hyaline mycelia, memnoniella, microsporum, mold, monilia, mucor, mycelium, myxomycetes, nigrospora, oidium, paecilomyces, papulospora, penicillium, periconia, perithecium, peronospora, phaeohyphomycosis, phoma, pithomyces, rhizomucor, rhizopus, rhodococcus, rhodotorula, rusts, saccharomyces, scopulariopsis, sepedonium, serpula lacrymans, smuts, spegazzinia, spore, sporoschisma, sporothrix, sporotrichum, stachybotrys, stemphylium, syncephalastrum, Thermononespore fusca DSM43793, torula, trichocladium, trichoderma, trichophyton, trichothecium, tritirachium, ulocladium, verticillium, wallemia and yeast.

One or more furanone compounds may be combined to act as chemoattracts for bacteria and or as odorants for the decomposing polymer. Some furanones, particularly certain halogenated furanones are quorum sensing inhibitors. Quorum sensing inhibitors are typically low-molecular-mass molecules that cause significant reduction in quorum sensing microbes. In other words, halogenated furanones kill certain microbes. Halogenated furanones prevent bacterial colonization in bacteria such as V. fischeri, Vibrio harveyi, Serratia ficaria and other bacteria. However, the natural furanones are ineffective against P. aeruginosa, but synthetic furanones can be effective against P. aeruginosa.

Some furanones, including those listed below, are actually chemo attractant agents for bacteria. Suitable furanones may include but are not limited to: 3,5_dimethylyentenyl_dihydro_(—)2(3H)furanone isomer mixtures, emoxyfurane and N-acylhomoserine lactones.

Bacteria that have shown to attract to the furanone compounds listed above include, but are not limited to C. violaceum,

Other chemo attractant agents include sugars that are not metabolized by the bacteria. Examples of these chemo attractant agents may include but are not limited to: galactose, galactonate, glucose, succinate, malate, aspartate, serine, fumarate, ribose, pyruvate, oxalacetate and other L-sugar structures and D-sugar structures but not limited thereto. Examples of bacteria attracted to these sugars include, but are not limited to Escherichia coli, and Salmonella. In a preferred embodiment the sugar is a non-estererfied starch

One embodiment of the present invention is used with any carrier resin such as Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate Copolymer with additive ingredients of organoleptic-Organics i.e. cultured colloids and natural or manmade fibers. When combined in small quantities with any of the plastic resins, the present invention renders the end products biodegradable while maintaining their desired characteristics.

An important attribute of the invention is its use without having to significantly modify the existing methods of production of plastic products. The resulting polymers and plastic products made therefrom exhibit the same desired mechanical properties, and have effectively similar shelf-lives as products without the additive, and yet, when disposed of, are able to at least partially metabolize into inert biomass by the communities of anaerobic and aerobic microorganisms commonly found almost everywhere on Earth.

This biodegradation process can take place aerobically or anerobically. It can take place with or without the presence of light. Traditional polymers are now able to biodegrade in land fill and compost environments within a reasonable amount of time as defined by the EPA to be 30 to 50 years on average.

One embodiment of the present invention differs significantly from other “degradable plastics” emerging in the market today because it does not attempt to replace the currently popular plastic resin formulations but instead enhances them by rendering them biodegradable. One embodiment of the present invention is superior to those currently in the market place for several reasons. Photo-degradable products, for example, do not degrade in land fills due to the lack of sunlight (they are typically covered with another layer of trash before the degradation can occur). At the same time these photo-degradable products present difficult circumstances for storage before use due to their reactivity to light. Similarly, plastic products manufactured with high amounts of cornstarch and cottonseed fillers fail to breakdown the molecular structure of the products' plastic components, partially break down only in commercial compost facilities, are very expensive to manufacture, and often do not achieve the requisite physical properties.

One embodiment of the present invention allows for a process which first attracts microorganisms through chemo taxis and then enables the microorganisms in the environment to metabolize the molecular structure of plastic films. The films may be degraded into an inert humus-like form that is harmless to the environment. An example of attracting microorganisms through chemo taxis is to use a positive chemo taxis, such as a scented polyethylene terephthalate pellet, starch D-sugars not metabolized by the microbes or furanone that attracts microbes or any combination thereof.

In a preferred embodiment, several proprietary bio-active compounds are combined into a master batch pellet that is easily added to plastic resins and colorants. The biodegradation process begins with one or more proprietary swelling agents that, when combined with heat and moisture, expands the plastics' molecular structure.

After the one or more swelling agents create space within the plastic's molecular structure, the combination of bio-active compounds discovered after significant laboratory trials attracts a colony of microorganisms that break down the chemical bonds and metabolize the plastic through natural microbial processes.

One embodiment of the present invention provides an improved formulation of an additive material that can be added to various polymeric materials and colorants, and mixed into such materials to make them biodegradable without having to chemically alter the polymeric molecules. This is important to preserving the formability of the polymeric materials so that they can be used for their essential purpose of being formed into articles that then can be sold into the streams of commerce for use by the customer. Once the product is used it can be discarded and sent to a land fill where once the products are buried into an environment lacking in oxygen the articles will biodegrade within a reasonably short time thus eliminating a serious environmental problem with the disposal of plastics in particular.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, an additive comprises a furanone compound, a glutaric acid, a hexadecanoic acid compound, a polycaprolactone polymer, a carrier resin to assist with placing the additive material into the polymeric material in an even fashion to assure proper biodegradation. The additive may also comprise organoleptic organic chemicals as swelling agents i.e. natural fibers, cultured colloids, cyclo-dextrin, polylactic acid, etc.

The additive material renders a wide variety of polymeric materials biodegradable which would not ordinarily be biodegradable. Examples of such polymeric materials include straight chain and branched chain addition polymers, copolymers, as well as condensation polymers. It includes aliphatic as well as aromatic based polymer materials. More specifically the additive is effective in rendering polyethylenes, polypropylenes, polyvinyl acetates, poly lactic acids, poly caprolactones, poly glycolic acids, poly lactic_co_glycolic acids, polyvinyl chlorides, polystyrenes, polyterethalates, and polyesters, polyamides biodegradable so that they may be simply added to a land fill and in the presence or absence of oxygen to initiate biodegradation.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, an additive comprises a mixture of a furanone compound, a glutaric acid, a hexadecanoic acid compound, a polycaprolactone polymer, organoleptic swelling agent (natural fiber, cultured colloid, cyclo-dextri, Polylactic acid, etc.) and a carrier resin to assist with placing the additive material into the polymeric material to be rendered biodegradable in an even fashion to assure proper biodegradation. Preferably, the furanone compound is in a range equal to or greater than 0-20% by weight. In a more preferred embodiment, the furanone compound is 20-40% by weight, more preferably 40-60% by weight, still more preferably 60-80% by weight or preferably 80-100% by weight of the total additive. The glutaric acid is in the range equal to or greater than 0-20% by weight of the total additive. In a more preferred embodiment, the glutaric acid is 20-40% by weight, more preferably 40-60% by weight, still more preferably 60-80% by weight or preferably 80-100% by weight, 20-40%, 40-60%, 60-80% or 80-100% by weight of the total additive. The hexadecanoic acid compound is in the range equal to or greater than 0-20% by weight of the total additive. In a more preferred embodiment, the hexadecanoic acid is 20-40% by weight, more preferably 40-60% by weight, still more preferably 60-80% by weight or preferably 80-100% by weight, 20-40%, 40-60%, 60-80% or 80-100% by weight of the total additive. The polycaprolactone polymer is in the range equal to or greater than 0-20% by weight of the total additive. In a more preferred embodiment, the polycaprolactone is 20-40% by weight, more preferably 40-60% by weight, still more preferably 60-80% by weight or preferably 80-100% by weight, 20-40%, 40-60%, 60-80% or 80-100% by weight of the total additive. The natural or manmade organoleptic swelling agent (e.g. natural fiber, cultured colloid, cyclo-dextrin, or polylactic acid) is in the range equal to or greater than 0-20% by weight of the additive. In a more preferred embodiment, the organoleptic swelling agent is 20-40% by weight, more preferably 40-60% by weight, still more preferably 60-80% by weight or preferably 80-100% by weight, 20-40%, 40-60%, 60-80% or 80-100% by weight of the total additive. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEC) photos with scientific analysis have provided proof of biodegradation taking place using the above mixture of chemical compounds in three months time. See examples below for further discussion regarding the SEC photos.

The glutaric acid compound may be propylglutaric acid for example, but is not limited thereto.

The polycaprolactone polymer may be selected from, but is not limited to the group of: poly ε caprolactone, polycaprolactone, poly(lactic acid), poly(glycolic acid), poly (lactic_co_glycolic acid).

The swelling agents may be selected from, but is not limited to the group of: natural fibers, cultured colloids, organoleptic compounds, cyclo-dextrin.

The carrier resin may be selected from, but is not limited to the group of: ethylene vinyl acetate, poly vinyl acetate, maleic anhydride, and acrylic acid with polyolefins.

Once the additive has been formulated, it must be rendered into a form that will allow even distribution of the additive into the polymeric material that is desired to be made biodegradable. This can be accomplished by granulation, powdering, making an emulsion, suspension, or other medium of similar even consistency.

In a preferred embodiment, the additive is blended into the polymeric material just before sending the polymeric material to the forming machinery for making the desired article or finished polymeric product.

Any carrier resin may be used with one embodiment of the present invention (such as poly-vinyl acetate, ethyl vinyl acetate, etc.) where poly olefins or any plastic material that these carrier resins are compatible with can be combined chemically and allow for the dispersion of the additive.

Current additives without the carrier resins may be used in varying proportions and blended in with any plastic product, biodegradable additive or product such as poly lactic acid, oxy degradable additives, or non plastic product (non poly olefin or plastic material).

Further, the additive of the present invention will work with renewable resources (Green) plastic products such as Duponts Sorano. The current invention will also work with any form of plastic molding process that has been created for the purpose of producing end products, i.e. injection, thermoforming, blown, extrusion, roto, spray-on coating or dipping on layer into another.

In yet another preferred embodiment, the invention is a film with one or more layers, where each layers includes a different product or combination of products to allow for new biodegradable products to be manufactured that have improved properties. These properties would include: all the benefits of a poly lactic acid product (meets the ASTM D-6400-99 standard for biodegradability in 90 days) and those of a polyethylene plastic layer that retains its shelf life indefinitely and provides for strength, protection from light, oxygen, moisture, heat, and mechanical stress. Microbes can be applied to the layers using vapor deposition, wherein other materials are in the other layers and more than one species of microbes can be selectively applied to the layers. For instance, each microbe can be selected for its capability to produce one or more beneficial by-products, such as methane, ozone, or oxygen

In addition, any of the layers could have micro perforations or perforations of varying sizes and shapes that would allow for varying amounts for moisture, water, liquids, gas, etc. to pass through a less permeable, biodegradable plastic layer made using the biodegradable additive technology. Once the gas, liquid or moisture substance passes through an outer layer (which is of varying dimensions, sizes and shapes as well as physical and chemical properties), the inner layers will begin to biodegrade at a pre-designed rate. For example, a bottle that has a thin layer of polyethylene plastic with the biodegradable additive on the exterior can sustain a full shelf life because the interior layer contacting a liquid is keeping the liquid away from the poly lactic acid (starch based) biodegradable material on the outside of the bottle. Also, the inner material provides rigidity against mechanical stress. Once the bottle is put into land fill, moisture and microbes will attack the outer portion of the bottle and degrade it quickly. Finally, the inner layer of film will come into contact with microbes and biodegrade at a different rate of time.

Another embodiment is a multilayered biaxial oriented film (made from polypropylene, polyethylene, polystyrene, etc.) that has layer(s) of starch based materials or green recycled polyethylene terephthalate materials or a combination of material(s) in combination with the normal plastic materials with the new biodegradable additive such as plastic with additive according to one embodiment of the present invention covering composite polymer material.

Any variation of the layering approach and/or using some other design like honey comb hexagon shapes or any other can be employed using the present invention.

In a further preferred embodiment, metals are part of the additive's composition to induce rusting with or without the layered approach. Metals add strength to a given item while allowing them to rust through and allow for degrading. All types of metal particles can be included in the mix to produce new variations with differing properties. Since rust particles are air borne the new material would begin to rust and degrade once it comes into contact with moisture.

Colorants, inks and metallic particles are preferably added to the additive or into any layer in any combination of the additive. The colorants, inks and metallic product increase or decrease light (UV) reflectance, add strength, slow or prevent the breakdown of a layer, or vary the time to break down i.e. degradation or biodegradation at a specific time.

In another preferred embodiment, the introduction of a marker for the purpose of quality control (important to know that a designed % by load weight of the invention additive is present) is a part of the additive. Materials such as: CS131, C-14, phosphorescent materials, minerals that glow in the dark, alpha emitting particles with short half life that the concentrations can be easily measured with instrumentation in use today and are easily used to ensure the quality and effectiveness of the additive.

The present invention biodegrades high impact polystyrene, polystyrene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, high density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, and others. Scanning Electron Microscope was used to test the biodegradability of these materials when mixed in a 1% to 5% by load weight of additive to plastic.

The following is an example of a layer composition of a preferred embodiment. Multilayered films, such as ultra multilayered polyethylene terephthalate (trade marked Tetoron MLF), which is extremely thin film technology that laminates 200 to 300 layers or more of two types of polymer films has been improved on but not limited to the following example:

-   -   Layer 1 (UV or light prevention layer), Layer 2 (Layer of         biodegrading microbes suspended in plastic), Layer 3 (Fragrance         or flavoring layer), Layer 4 (Smell attractant layer for         microbes,), Layer 5 (Green product layer like such as Dupont         Sarano™), Layer 6 (Initiators layer that modify the polymers         i.e. light, heat, high energy, free radicals), Layer 7         (Remembrance polymer layer that returns a molecules to previous         shapes when a pre designed temperature or condition is met),         Layer 8 (Perforated or micro perforated layer(s) with the         additive that allow moisture/water or some specified inducer in         the form of a gas or liquid through the perforations and into         the inner layer allowing for the stimulation of the         microorganisms (bacteria, mold fungi, yeast, enzymes, etc) and         the biodegradation process to begin.

Referring now to FIG. 1, one embodiment of creating a biodegradable polymer is illustrated. Layers can be rearranged into most any combination and additional layers can be added or eliminated as required. The microbe layer(s) (Layer 2 of the example) comprises: carbon dioxide eating microbes (thermopiles) and Pseudomonas putida, which occurs naturally in soil and can live on styrene. The microbes may be suspended and resuspended upon interaction with water or other fluid. The microbes may be oil eating microbes such as alcanivorax borkumensis

An example of suitable microbes mixed into the additive of the present invention is called chemo heterotrophic prokaryotes. These bacteria function as decomposers breaking down corpses, dead vegetation, and waste products Nitrogen-fixing prokaryotes. Many prokaryotes live with other organisms in symbiotic relationships such as mutualism and commensalisms. To allow for a particular form on microbe (mold, fungi, bacteria, etc.) to function in decomposing/biodegrading of plastic, the proper nutrients is important in the plastic for them to feed on it (in the case of nitrogen fixing bacteria it would be a nitrogen, sulfur fixing bacteria sulfur, etc.). The microbes may be able to remain dormant while suspended in a thin layer matrix of some plastic or other compound. The microbes are activated in use when they come into contact with an initiator such as water and begin to decompose or biodegrade the plastic containing the specific nutrient e.g. nitrogen that they must have in order to thrive. Once the nutrient is gone, the microbes die and return to the soil.

In one preferred embodiment, the microbe and furanone material are dispersed within a capsule in order to facilitate controlled release of the additive. The capsule acts to contain the microbes and furanone and separate it from the polymers so that it doesn't get mixed directly into the polymers during the melting phase.

In another preferred embodiment, the additive includes one or more antioxidants that are used to control the biodegradation rate. Antioxidants can be enzymatically coupled to biodegradable monomers such that the resulting biodegradable polymer retains antioxidant function. Antioxidant-couple biodegradable polymers can be produced to result in the antioxidant coupled polymer degrading at a rate consistent with an effective administration rate of the antioxidant. Antioxidants are chosen based upon the specific application, and the biodegradable monomers may be either synthetic or natural.

In yet another preferred embodiment, the additive is dispersed into polymeric compositions using one or more supercritical fluids. The supercritical fluids are used to diffuse additives into raw material polymeric resin or even finished polymeric products. This supercritical interdiffusion process can be applied repeatedly without ruining or damaging the polymer system. This establishes total reversibility of the process. The process for treating polymeric resins with supercritical fluids includes: (1) supercritical diffusion of one or more additives into a polymeric resin; (2) concurrent compounding in the supercritical fluid; and (3) further process of the resulting infused or interdiffused polymeric resin, but known techniques, to yield the desired final product(s).

In a further preferred embodiment, the microbes are genetically engineered and customized for the particular biodegradable polymeric material. Genetically engineered microbes with protease specific for a biodegradable plastic (for example, poly ε caprolactone). These genetically engineered microbes are designed to excrete beneficial gases and energy biproducts. These microbes use enzyme-based routes to monomer, oligomer and polymer synthesis as well as polymer modification.

EXAMPLE 1

An Example composition of a preferred embodiment is shown below for addition to a high density polyethylene. In order to make the high density polyethylene biodegradable, blend together the additive components in the following proportions:

The furanone compound in a range equal to or greater than about 0-20%, or about 20-40%, or about 40-60%, or about 60-80% or about 80-100% by load weight of the total additive; the glutaric acid in the range equal to or greater than about 0-20%, or about 20-40%, about 40-60%, about 60-80% or about 80-100% by weight of the total additive; the hexadecanoic acid compound in the range equal to or greater than about 0-20%, or about 20-40%, or about 40-60%, or about 60-80% or about 80-100% by weight of the total additive; the polycaprolactone polymer in the range equal to or greater than about 0-20%, or about 20-40%, or about 40-60%, or about 60-80% or about 80-100% by weight of the total additive; the polycaprolactone, poly(lactic acid), poly(glycolic acid) and poly(lactic_co_glycolic acid) in the range equal to or greater than about 0-20%, or about 20-40%, or about 40-60%, or about 60-80% or about 80-100% by weight of the total additive and natural or manmade organoleptic swelling agent (natural fiber, cultured colloid, cyclo-dextrin, Polylactic acid, etc.) in the range equal to or greater than about 0-20%, or about 20-40%, or about 40-60%, or about 60-80% or about 80-100% by weight of the total additive.

Testing results from several independent testing laboratories have established the biodegradability of plastic test films, foams and other forms which utilized the biodegradable formulation. The tests concluded that the films, foams and other forms were biodegradable under short and long-term anaerobic and aerobic conditions.

EXAMPLE 2

Samples of polyvinylchloride foam with additive (sample A) and without additive (sample B) were examined under a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). In addition, samples of polyvinylchloride foam with additive (sample C) and without additive (sample D) were sonicated in detergent for 5 minutes to remove attached biofilm and microbial colonies. Subsamples of approximately 1 square centimeter were cut from larger samples to prepare for imaging.

Analysis of the samples was carried out on a JEOL 5800LV SEM. The SEM was equipped with an Oxford Instruments Energy Dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDX) and an Oxford X-ray analyzer and image system. Accelerating voltage was 15 kV with a beam current of approximately 0.01 nA.

It was observed that the sample A surface displayed a large amount of biofilm attached. The biofilm occupied depressions in the surface. In other areas, the biofilm and colonies sit in large continuous depressions. Also visible were cracks in the polyvinylchloride which were exposed by shrinkage of the biofilm during drying.

It was observed that the sample C surface displayed shallow depressions under the microbial colonies after they had been removed. These depressions were irregular in outline, reflecting the irregular outline of the microbial colonies.

It was observed that the sample B surface displayed a large amount of biofilm attached. It was observed that the sample D surface displayed no biofilm or colonies. Only a few depressions were observed that could be identified as associated with microbial colonies. The depressions seen on the surface of sample D were much less common than on sample C.

Based on the example above, it is apparent that the microbial colonies are embedded in the surface of the treated sample, mostly occurring in shallow depressions. The microbes tenaciously attached to the treated surface and there were more colonies present, as compared to the untreated sample. The depressions under the colonies indicate that they are degrading the material much faster than the untreated polyvinylchloride, due to the additive present in the treated sample. The additive is not present in the control sample, and microbial degradation is much slower there.

EXAMPLE 3

Samples of polyethylenepthalate with additive (sample A) and without additive (sample B) were examined under a SEM. Both samples were cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner with a mild detergent.

Analysis of the samples was carried out in the same way that the samples in Example 2, were carried out with the same instrument.

It was observed that sample A surface displayed bubbles just below the surface, broken bubbles at the surface, sub-parallel striations and scratches and other mechanical damage. Sample A shows significant evidence of biodegradation.

It was observed that sample B surface displayed a very smooth surface where most defects were a result of mechanical processes.

Sample A shows significant differences from sample B. For example, sample A shows numerous bubbles, possibly from microbial gas production within the plastic, and odd ribbon-like defects of unknown origin, in addition to sloughing skin. Sample B shows little effect. Sample A is being severely degraded, while sample B is only slightly degraded.

EXAMPLE 4

Samples of expanded polystyrene foam with additive (sample A) and without additive (sample B) were examined under a SEM.

Analysis of the samples was carried out in the same way that the samples in Example 2, were carried out with the same instrument.

It was observed that sample A surface displayed several types of surface damage, such as a large ragged holes, and ragged edges and cracks around the holes.

It was observed that sample B surface displayed smooth holes most likely related to the foam making process.

Surface degradation is present in sample A and it is believed that the jagged holes in sample A are of a different origin than the smooth holes on sample B. Sample A exhibits significant differences from sample B. Thus, the changes to sample A are a result from the additive.

EXAMPLE 5

Samples of high impact polystyrene nursery plant labels with additive (sample A) and without additive (sample B) were examined under a SEM.

Analysis of the samples was carried out in the same way that the samples in Example 2, were carried out with the same instrument.

It was observed that sample A surface numerous had irregular pits and smaller crater-like holes. A surface layer cracking and peeling away produced the large pits. The smaller crater-like holes could be seen within the shallow pits. The small holes had no apparent relationship to the tensional cracks seen around the large pits.

It was observed that sample B surface displayed an inherent surface roughness, but showed little in the way of degradation. A few surface defects were observed, but they were most likely due to mechanical damage rather than degradation.

Sample A and sample B displayed obvious differences. Sample A showed a large number of pits and cracks that did not appear on sample B. The surface of sample A was highly altered. Since major changes only occurred on sample A, they were most likely a result of the additive used to treat sample A.

EXAMPLE 6

Samples of bubble wrap with additive (sample A) and without additive (sample B) were examined under a SEM. In addition, samples of polyvinyl chloride foam with additive (sample C) and without additive (sample D) were sonicated in detergent for 5 minutes to remove attached biofilm and microbial colonies.

Analysis of the samples was carried out in the same way that the samples in Example 2, were carried out with the same instrument.

It was observed that sample A surface showed a diverse and thriving microbial community attached to the bubble wrap. There were also curved pits in the bubble wrap due to dissolution of the plastic by attached bacteria.

It was observed that sample C surface displayed abundant small circular pits. These pits may be due to direct dissolution by microbes attached to the surface.

It was observed that sample B surface was smooth even with a large quantity of microbes attached. The community appeared to be a difference community than observed on sample A.

It was observed that sample D surface was smooth and fairly featureless, but exhibited a pattern of raised ridges that are roughly parallel. There were some pits, but they were much smaller than the bacteria indicating that the pits were probably not produced by the bacteria.

Samples A and C displayed obvious differences than samples B and D. Pits and surface defects were widespread on samples A and C, but were present to a much lesser extent on samples B and D. Pits of all sizes and other surface features were exceedingly abundant across samples A and C, while less common on samples B and D. The pits on samples A and C were most likely related to microbial breakdown of the plastic, since they were often the same size as the bacteria.

EXAMPLE 7

Samples of shoe, shoe sole and shoe Mogo plaque made from polyethylene polymeric material with 1% per weight load additive (sample A), shoe sole and shoe Mogo plaque with 5% per weight load additive (sample B) and shoe, shoe sole and shoe Mogo plaque without additive (sample C) were placed in an anaerobic digester environment analogous to a land fill. The samples were placed within containers that were positioned underneath a large diameter effluent discharge pipe flowing at a fairly constant rate and temperature. The samples were completely covered in liquid waste. The samples were covered in liquid waste for 253 days.

At the end of 4 months, 6 months and 8 months, samples A, B and C were collected, cleaned with warm water and soap in an ultrasonic cleaner and submitted for examination of the plastic biodegradation.

Attenuated Total Reflectance Analysis

An attenuated total reflectance (ATR) analysis was performed on all of the samples in Example 7. The ATR spectra were recorded for these samples using Perkin-Elmer 16PC spectrometer. All the samples were scanned in the range of 4000 to 800 cm⁻¹. The spectra indicate slight change in samples A and B compared to sample C. In comparing the ATR spectrum from the 4 month mark to the 8 month mark, sample A showed a significant increase in biodegradation. Biodegradation for sample A increase from 2.7% to 15.8%.

The ATR spectrum from the 4 month mark for sample B showed a degradation rate of 7.65%.

Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) Studies

The mechanical and thermal properties of the samples in Example 7 significantly depend on the crystal structure, degree of crystallinity, molecular weight and branching. The temperatures of the melting range and glass transition point vary strongly with the polymer type.

For the samples, the interest was mainly focused on the glass transition temperature (Tg), melting range and heat of fusion (crystallinity), and decomposition of the material.

The DSC results show that for sample B, the exothermic (crystallization) peak shifted to a different temperature compared to sample C. This shift is due in part to biodegradation.

Based on the analytical data above, samples A and B are undergoing biodegradation.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a size exclusion chromatographic (SEC) analyses of polyethylene samples with and without additive were carried out using 98% tetrahydrofuran (THF) and 2% triethyl amine as the mobile phase. The samples submitted were: 1) Shoe (control—does not contain Bio-Batch additive), 2) Shoe sole (control), 3) Shoe Mogo plaque (control), 4) Shoe (treated—contains 5% Bio-Batch per weight load), 5) Shoe sole (treated—contains 1% Bio-Batch per weight load), 6) Shoe sole (treated—contains 5% Bio-Batch per weight load), 7) Shoe Mogo plaque (treated—contains 1% Bio-Batch per weight load), 8) Shoe Mogo plaque (treated—contains 5% Bio-Batch per weight load).

The samples were dissolved in mobile phase and filtered before analysis. Based on the chromatograms presented above the peak in the control sample at retention time 4.5 minutes has disappeared in the 5% biobatch sample and has decreased in 1% biobatch sample. The disappearance of this high molecular weight peak is an indication of material degradation. Also another indication is the increase in the peak area for low molecular weight fraction at retention time 9.4 minutes. Taken together, it appears that the samples tested above have undergone biodegradation of about 4%.

However, to the touch, the treated samples at the end of an 8 month test are distinctly different than the control samples. They are more malleable and flexible than the controls. This is due to the deterioration of the chemical composition in the treated samples versus the control samples.

Based on the FTIR/ATR, DSC and SEC analyses it is clear that the samples show evidence of about 4% biodegradation.

EXAMPLE 8

Further ATR analysis of polystyrene treated with additive (Sample A) and polystyrene that is untreated (sample B) was conducted. The ATR spectra for sample B1 indicates peaks at 2913.33, 2850.43, 2360 and 2333.33, 1236.66 and 1016.66. The treated sample shows peaks at 2915.21, 2847.22, 2362.31, 2336.88, 1736.55, 1460.41, 1238.22, and 1017.78. Since the main absorptions of the treated polystyrene are approximately 2935-2860 cm−1 and there are also absorptions at 1460 and 724 cm 1 the compound is a long linear aliphatic chain. The peak at 1736 is probably an amide or carboxylate (carboxylic acid salt or ketone which is an indication of the presence of carbonyl (C═O) group. The treated sample demonstrates signs of microbial degradation.

EXAMPLE 8

Polypropylene samples of 1 cm were examined by SEM for evidence of biodegradation is sample A treated with additive and sample B untreated with additive. SEM analysis was conducted as described in Example 1.

Sample A demonstrated abundant pits created by the microbial colonies and biofilm. The holes and pits range in size from about 1-2 um to about 10-50 um and larger. The holes contain visible microbes. In addition the surface shows sloughing and lifting which is attributable tin part to the microbial action in the subsurface.

In contrast sample B demonstrates a smooth surface without pits and holes of the type observed in sample A. Untreated Sample B does not demonstrate outer skin that has developed on the treated sample.

Although the invention has been described in detail with particular reference to these preferred embodiments, other embodiments can achieve the same results. Variations and modifications of the present invention will be obvious to those skilled in the art and it is intended to cover in the appended claims all such modifications and equivalents. The entire disclosure of all references, applications, patents, and publications cited above are hereby incorporated by reference. 

1. A biodegradable additive for polymeric material comprising: a chemo attractant compound; a glutaric acid or its derivative; a carboxylic acid compound with chain length from 5-18 carbons; a polymer; and a swelling agent.
 2. The biodegradable additive for polymeric material of claim 1 further comprising a microbe which can digest the polymeric material.
 3. The biodegradable additive of claim 1 wherein said polymer is selected from the group consisting of: polydivinyl benzene, ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyterethalate, polyesters, polyvinyl chloride, methacrylate, nylon 6, polycarbonate, polyamide, and any copolymers of said polymers
 4. The biodegradable additive of claim 1 further comprising a compatibilizing additive.
 5. The biodegradable additive of claim 1 further comprising a carrier resin.
 6. The biodegradable additive of claim 5 wherein said carrier resin is selected from the group consisting of: polydivinyl benzene, ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers, maleic anhydride, acrylic acid with polyolefins.
 7. The biodegradable additive for polymeric material of claim 1 further comprising a positive chemotaxis agent to attract microbes.
 8. The biodegradable additive for polymeric material of claim 7 wherein the positive chemo taxis agent is a sugar or a furanone.
 9. The biodegradable additive for polymeric material of claim 8 wherein said microbe and said furanone are disposed within a capsule in order to facilitate controlled release of the material.
 10. The biodegradable additive for polymeric material of claim 1 further comprising one or more selected from colorants, inks, or metallic particles.
 11. A method of creating a layered polymer plastic comprising: providing at least one layer of a polymer; and layering products around the polymer to create a new biodegradable product.
 12. The method of claim 11 wherein at least one layer comprises a microbe suitable for degrading the polymer.
 13. The method of claim 12 wherein the microbes are applied to the at least one layer using vapor deposition.
 14. The method of claim 11 wherein at least one layer has perforations.
 15. The method of claim 11 wherein the layering is biaxially oriented.
 16. The method of claim 11 wherein the layering is shaped like honey comb hexagon shapes.
 17. The method of claim 11 wherein an inner layer is rigid against mechanical stress.
 18. The method of claim 11 wherein at least one layer comprises a fragrance.
 19. The method of claim 11 wherein at least one layer is a smell attractant for microbes.
 20. The method of claim 11 wherein at least one layer is an initiator that modifies the polymer. 